Best Place to Buy Computers for Video Editing
Best video editing computer 2021: the ideal desktop PCs for video editors
Included in this guide:
Many of the best video editing computers have similar specifications because of the power needed to run demanding applications and render 4K or even 8K videos. From powerful graphics cards, to the latest processors and buckets of memory, with so many choices on the market these days, how do you know what's best for you?
Luckily we've compiled our list of favourites here, which run either Windows 10 (or Windows 11 after Oct 5) or macOS operating system, and they come packing some of the very latest and most powerful components, which means they can handle any video editing task with ease. Whether you're a fan of Apple or Microsoft, there's something for everyone.
Given how powerful they are, video editing computers typically don't come cheap, but the Black Friday sales are just around the corner which could save you a pretty penny. That doesn't mean that the products on this list are guaranteed to have a discount applied, but it's always worth checking. If you need a portable solution then there are also now laptops for video editing, equipped with the latest mobile graphics cards and 4K or even OLED displays.
Laptops have certainly come a long way, but for really demanding rendering jobs, nothing can beat a desktop computer. With a desktop, you're free to connect the machine to any of the best monitors for video editing, and hook up your favorite peripherals like a graphics drawing tablet.
Not sure what you're looking for? Jump to the what to consider when buying one of the best computers for video editing section. If you're looking for smartphone apps for video editing, see our guide to the best video editing apps for YouTube.
Along with brilliant all-in one PCs, and the very latest Macs, we've also included a few gaming PCs here as well. They actually make fantastic video editing PCs thanks to the cutting-edge components inside.
The best video editing computers
The best computer for video editing overall
Specifications
CPU: Apple M1 chip with 8‑core CPU
Graphics: Integrated 7-core – 8-core GPU
RAM: 8GB – 16GB unified memory
Screen: 24-inch 4.5K Retina display
Storage: up to 2TB
Reasons to buy
+Excellent screen quality +Updated, colorful design +Compact all-in-one
Reasons to avoid
-Lack of ports -No discrete GPU
Apple's recently released 24-inch iMac is our pick for the best computer for video design in 2021. This might raise some eyebrows as it's not the most powerful computer on this list by any stretch, but unless you're running 8K footage, this colorful AIO is more than enough for video editing. It has a 24-inch display (an improvement on the previous 21.5-inch model) and the 4.5K resolution is more than enough for most editing requirements in applications like Final Cut Pro.
The new iMac is powered by Apple's own M1 silicon, combining internal components like CPU, GPU and more into one highly responsive chip. The new iMac has also had one of the biggest redesigns in years, featuring thinner bezals and available in a range of bright colors, harkening back to Apple's classic G3 all-in-one PCs.
If you want a larger screen, and require more graphical horsepower, then the slightly older 27-inch iMac (located below) might serve you as a better buy.
Another brilliant video editing computer from Apple
Specifications
CPU: 10th-generation Intel Core i5 – i9
Graphics: AMD Radeon Pro 5300 - Radeon Pro 5700 XT
RAM: 8GB – 128GB 2666MHz DDR4
Screen: 27-inch (diagonal) 5120 x 2880 Retina 5K display
Storage: 256GB – 8TB SSD
Reasons to buy
+Improved internals +Can be configured to be very powerful
Reasons to avoid
-Design is getting old -Just two Thunderbolt ports
It might not be as bright and new as it's younger sibling, but the larger 27-inch iMac is still worth considering despite its aging hardware. Released in 2020, this model still sports capable components, featuring up to a 10th generation Intel i9 processor and an AMD Radeon Pro 5700 XT.
That discrete graphics card and larger 27-inch display are two reasons you opt for this older model, as despite lacking Apple's own silicon M1, the 27-inch iMac has it's beefier discreet GPU to run more demanding applications.
The webcam and built-in microphone has also been improved, which is handy for many people who now find themselves working from home. Sure, the design of this iMac hasn't changed, which makes it look outdated compared to the new 24-inch iMac, but it's still impressively slim and stylish. Its all-in-one design means its easy to set up and looks smart in any office, home or studio, and it's a formidable PC when it comes to editing high resolution videos.
3. Microsoft Surface Studio 2
A brilliant Windows all-in-one
Specifications
CPU: Intel Core i7-7820HQ
Screen: 28-inch 4500x3000 resolution IPS display
Graphics: Nvidia GeForce GTX 1060 6GB -GTX 1070 8GB
RAM: 16-32GB
Storage: 1-2TB SSD
Ports: 4xUSB 3.0; 1xUSB-C; SD card slot; Gigabit Ethernet; 3.5mm headphone jack
Size: 63.7cm x 1.3cm x 43.9cm x 1.3cm (WxDxH)
Weight: 9.56kg
OS: Windows 10
Reasons to buy
+Powerful graphics +High-res touch-sensitive display +A decent iMac alternative
Reasons to avoid
-The CPU is out of date compared to rival products -Eyewateringly expensive for what you get
Apple devices aren't for everyone, so if you're a devoted Windows PC user then don't despair – The Microsoft Surface Studio 2 is a brilliant alternative. You're getting a touch-sensitive 28-inch display that features a massive resolution of 4,500 x 3,000 pixels, all in one handy all-in-one computer. That's already a step up from the previously mention iMac devices, though many creatives would find using the Windows operating system to be a hefty trade off.
Not only does the Surface Studio 2 look fantastic, as it features a touchscreen, you can drag and drop video clips with a finger as well as a mouse, and there are plenty of available ports for you to connect your favourite mice, keyboards and other peripherals. It also comes with hinge that lets you flip the screen all the way down to edit video and it can be used with a pen for drawing if you wanted to save cash on buying a drawing tablet.
The components inside are beginning to show their age, but they are still plenty powerful enough to run demanding video editing apps.
4. Apple Mac Pro (2019)
An incredibly powerful video editing PC from Apple
Specifications
CPU: up to 28-Core Intel Xeon W
Graphics: up to AMD Radeon Pro Vega II Duo
RAM: up to 1.5TB
Storage: up to 8TB SSD
Communications: 802.11ac Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0, 2x 10Gb Ethernet,
Dimensions (W x D x H): 21.8 x 45.0 x 52.9 cm
Reasons to buy
+Incredibly modular +More than enough power +Portability with optional wheels
Reasons to avoid
-Very expensive -Not a very attractive design
You've likely seen the comical 'cheesegrater' PC in Apple's family of desktop computers, but if you're after an absolute powerhouse of a video editing computer and you have deep pockets, the Apple Mac Pro (2019) is no joke.
It's eye wateringly expensive, but the Mac Pro can be customized to your needs, configured to come with hardware that makes intensive video editing tasks complete much faster than less powerful PCs, and this can have a huge impact on your workflow.
The initial investment might hurt your wallet, but unlike many other Apple devices, it's easy to upgrade parts of the system later on thanks to its modular design. This means it can be future proofed for years to come, saving you cash on buying an entirely new system.
The Apple Mac Pro won't be for everyone - for many, it will be overkill - but if you need the very best performance out of a video editing PC, this is the machine to get.
Powerful, small and great for video editing
Specifications
CPU: Apple M1 chip with 8-core
Graphics: Integrated 8-core
RAM: 8GB – 64GB unified memory
Storage: 256GB – 2TB SSD
Dimensions (W x D x H): 19.7 x 19.7 x 3.6 cm
Reasons to buy
+Same lovely design +Very good performance +New M1 hardware has potential
Reasons to avoid
-Can't use eGPUs -Not ideal for 4K
If you need the power of a desktop computer, but the portability of a laptop device then look no further than the Mac mini, a diminutive PC equipped with Apple's all-new M1 chip, which packs an 8-core GPU. Don't let its compact size fool you, this is a very capable PC for video editing, especially when paired with one of the best 4K monitors on the market.
The base model features the Apple M1 chip with 8-core CPU and 16-core Neural Engine with 256GB SSD, and there are four expansion ports at the back for either USB or Thunderbolt external storage, plus HDMI 2.0 to simultaneously support two displays. This is a great alternative to the expensive Mac Pro above.
It's also the same hardware found in the new iMac 24-inch model, and offers very similar performance, but without the built-in display, and for quite a bit less money. If you already have a monitor you love using, then the Mac mini is a great alternative to the new iMac, and can save you a decent amount of cash.
6. Dell G5
A budget gaming PC that's great at video editing
Specifications
CPU: 9th Gen Intel Core i3-9100 – i9 9900K
Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 – RTX 2070
RAM: 8GB – 64GB
Storage: 1TBSSD – 1TB SSD + 2TB HDD
Reasons to buy
+Affordable for a gaming system +VR-ready configurations +Lots of configurations
Reasons to avoid
-Base model isn't up to scratch -Availability issues
If you also like to play videogames in your spare time, we have some good news for you - gaming PCs are brilliant video editing computers as they usually come with plenty of RAM, the latest multi-core processors, and powerful graphics cards.
The Dell G5 isn't the most powerful gaming PC on the market, but it's muted design, affordable price and configuration options make it one of the best choices to enjoy the best of both worlds.
If you don't want to spend huge amounts of money, the budget Dell G5 is a fantastic choice. It comes with 9th-generation Intel chips and Nvidia's most powerful gaming GTX and RTX graphics cards. As with many of Dell's products, you can configure the G5 to suit your budget and needs, so you won't end up spending money on power and features you don't need. It's also stylishly designed, so it won't look out of place in an office or studio, and it comes with Dell's respected build quality to boot.
7. Lenovo Legion Tower 5i
A powerful PC for video editing
Specifications
CPU: up to 10th-gen Intel Core i7
Graphics: Up to NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Super
RAM: Up to 16 GB DDR4 2933MHz
Storage: Up to 2 TB HDD + 1 TB SSD
Reasons to buy
+Clean, modern design +Beefy components for heavy graphical workloads +Various configurations to choose from
Reasons to avoid
-No USB Type-C at the front -RGB lighting won't please everyone
Lenovo also make some fantastic, affordable gaming PCs that are suitable for creative professionals. The Lenovo Legion 5i one such example that also doubles as a fantastic PC for video editing, offering superb value for money.
You'r getting 10th generation Intel processors, and up to an Nvidia GeForce RTX 2070 Super, which might be slightly outdated by gaming standards, but it's still plenty powerful enough to run any AAA game and demanding editing application you can throw at it.
You can also configure it with up to 16GB of RAM, which again should be plenty for most people. If you find you need more, then you can always upgrade it yourself later one - one of the best things about desktop PCs is how relatively easy they are to upgrade. Best of all, this PC can come with loads of storage space, with up to 1TB hard drive and a 1TB SSD - making it ideal for storing all your video files on.
8. Lenovo Yoga AIO 7
A great iMac or Surface Studio alternative
Specifications
CPU: Up to AMD Ryzen 7 4800H
Graphics: Up to Nvidia GeForce RTX 2060
RAM: 32 GB DDR4
Storage: Up to 1TB M.2 SSD + 2TB HDD
Display: 27" 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) IPS, DCI-P3 99%, Adobe RGB 99%
Reasons to buy
+Good price for the features and specs +4K display can rotate to portrait mode +Optional 99% Adobe RGB coverage
Reasons to avoid
-Components are slightly outdated -Pricey for a non-Apple AIO
The 27-inch Yoga AIO 7 might not be as powerful as the iMac Pro, but if you're looking for an AMD-powered All-in-One Windows PC, this has a decent selection of features that make it well optimized for creative professionals. The 4K display comes with optional 99% Adobe RGB colour gamut and DCI-P3 99% colour space, and can be fully rotated to portrait mode with just a push of a finger.
The 32GB of RAM will help speed up rendering and if you're partial to using applications like Adobe After Effects, and you can select up to an Nvidia RTX 2060 graphics card to help with any demanding editing or rendering.
With up to 1TB of SSD storage and the option for a 2TB HDD, there's plenty of room to save video footage, and plenty of ports to pair with your favorite peripherals.
The best video editing computer for professionals with big budgets
Specifications
Display: 27-inch 5K Retina
Processor: 8-, 10- or 18-Core
Turbo Boost: up to 4.5GHz
Memory: 32GB
Storage: 1TB
Graphics: Vega GPU
Size: (h) 51.6cm x (w) 65.0cm
Weight: 9.7 kg
Connections: 10Gb Ethernet, four Thunderbolt 3 (USB‑C) ports, four USB 3 ports, SDXC card slot
Reasons to buy
+Incredibly powerful +Superior graphics for an iMac +5K retina display
Reasons to avoid
-Soooooooo expensive -A new model could be just around the corner
There's another iMac on the market for dedicated fans of the Apple AIO. If you need extra power and you have some deep pockets, the iMac Pro is still a beloved desktop computer that's perfect for running demanding applications and video editing.
Starting with an 8-core Intel Xeon processor, the least expensive iMac Pro option is already immensely powerful, with an outrageous 18-core option for those who can afford it. 1TB to 4TB of SSD internal storage means that you'll be able to store tonnes of 4K footage before you need to think about additional best external hard drives. And it's not short on ports, either, with four Thunderbolt 3.0 ports and a 10GB Ethernet port.
The built-in screen is also one of the finest around, with a 27-inch screen size and 5K resolution. It's 43% brighter than standard Apple Retina monitors and delivers up to an astonishing one billion colours. There aren't too many screens around that will flatter your footage more.
10. Alienware Aurora Ryzen Edition R10
A powerful AMD gaming PC
Specifications
CPU: Up to AMD Ryzen 9 5950X
Graphics: Up to NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080
RAM: Up to 128GB 3200MHz DDR4
Storage: Up to 2TB SSD + 2TB HDD
Reasons to buy
+Powerful top-end specifications +Clean, modern design +Lots of customization
Reasons to avoid
-RGB lighting isn't for everyone -Expensive (but fair) pricetag
The Alienware Aurora Ryzen Edition R10 is one of the best AMD-based gaming desktops on the market, with plenty of configuration options available for users to customize the system to fit their needs. With Dell owning the Alienware brand, there's also the opportunity to save some cash if your employer or place of education provide discount vouchers for new equipment.
The UFO-inspired design might not be to everyone's taste, and while the price is fair for the product you get, this is still a very expensive PC. If you were looking to combine a love of gaming with your video editing demands though, buying a single machine like this can provide you with the best of both worlds.
What should I look for in a video editing computer?
Video editing is fairly demanding on most systems, so when looking into a new computer make sure you have a super-fast CPU, lots of RAM and a decent graphics card.
Encoding and transcoding will be better on a faster CPU, so you'll want to look at clock speed rather than the number of cores. An Intel i7 or AMD Ryzen 7 processor released in the last few years should suffice, if you can afford to bump up to a full i9 or Ryzen 9 processor, your system will have a much easier time coping with demanding applications.
Rendering is a similar story, mainly using your CPU and RAM, so while most traditional desktop computers can get by with 16GB (or even 8GB), you'll want to stick as much in as you can afford. 32GB is the sweet spot, but the more the merrier.
The most important components for you to concentrate on are the graphics card and processor. If you're looking to edit ultra-high definition videos or add complex video effects, then we strongly recommend buying a PC with a dedicated graphics card as this will ensure the PC can handle your video editing tasks.
There are popular products available from both Nvidia and AMD such as the GeForce RTX 3080 and the Radeon RX 6800 XT, but you'll find that most GPUs released within the last four years should meet the standard for video editing or rendering.
Meanwhile, a fast, modern, multi-core processor will also help speed up your video editing workflow. Pair that with a good amount of RAM (we recommend 8GB as a minimum, and preferably 16GB but the more, the merrier), and you should be able to chew through video editing tasks with ease.
The best video editing PCs will also offer fast SSD (solid-state drive) storage. This helps make moving, copying and accessing large files nice and quick. Video files can often be quite large, especially when you're shooting in 4K, so you'll need plenty of hard drive space to store it all on as well. If a PC is advertised with an HDD or Hard Drive we would recommend looking elsewhere – HDDs are generally much cheaper, but also much slower, and it's not hard to find affordable SSD builds these days.
Is a gaming PC good at video editing?
Gaming computers and laptops share a few things in common with those optimized for creative professionals: You need a fast CPU, a powerful GPU to run your games/applications and as much RAM as you can afford.
This makes gaming PCs a great alternative to portable workstations, especially as many manufacturers don't create desktop computers with creative professions like video editing in mind, which is why you may have noticed that this list is dominated by Apple-branded hardware and gaming PCs.
The components required to run next-gen AAA games and hardware like VR headsets isn't dissimilar to those used by people who run demanding software such as Adobe Creative Suit, and many companies like Dell, Lenovo and HP will provide different configurations that allow you to customise the system to your exact needs.
You can expect a recently released, high-spec processor, a beefy graphics card, plentiful and speedy RAM, and of course a sizable SSD storage capacity for you to save 4K files to.
Gaming desktops can also support powerful displays, so if you need a 4K, 144Hz monitor then you'll find gaming PCs more readily available than specialized creative systems. The only thing you need to worry about is a 'gamer' aesthetic and an occasionally obnoxious amount of RGB lighting.
You might also want to check out our guide to the best video editing software, to whip your footage into shape. You can download Premiere Pro – our top pick of that list – too.
But why choose a desktop computer instead of one of the best laptops for video editing or the best tablets for video editing? While today's top-of-the-line laptops are indeed powerful enough to be used for video editing, you still get the best performance and best value for money from a desktop computer, with the added benefit that it's much easier to upgrade.
Related articles:
- The best 4K monitors available right now
- The best video editing apps
- The best cloud storage
Matt has been a technology journalist for well over a decade, writing for publications such as T3, MacFormat and Creative Bloq. He's a senior editor of TechRadar, Creative Bloq's sister site, where he can be found writing about and reviewing laptops, computers, monitors and more. He often writes for Creative Bloq, helping creatives find their perfect laptop or PC.
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Best Place to Buy Computers for Video Editing
Source: https://www.creativebloq.com/features/best-computer-for-video-editing
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